Sterile implant tracking device and method

ABSTRACT

An assembly and method for tracking implant devices within a sterile field, the assembly comprising a reader, a sterile medical drape and a computer in communication with the reader. The reader comprises a scanner, housing structure and an optional transparent sterile sheath.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to U.S. provisional application No. 61/492,177 filed on Jun. 1, 2011 and U.S. provisional application No. 61/512,978 filed on Jul. 29, 2011, the entire content of each application incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to an implant tracking system using an optical-based identification technique.

2. Description of the Related Art

Tracking and managing orthopedic implant replacements is an important health issue. Typically each implant contains a unique identification number, such as, for example, a manufacturer's identification and/or serial number. Whenever an implant is placed, this number is recorded as a permanent record in a database. In the future this number can be referenced to track the age of the implant, the manufacturer for purposes of recall and adjustment, and can be used postmortem to identify a person having the implant.

The unique identification number may be tracked by identifiers, such as unique labels or other indicia, applied to the product and/or packaging and the labels may remain associated with the implant until the implant is used. In some cases, product labels include adhesive portions that can be applied to a chart or file of a patient to conveniently associate the medical device with a particular patient.

Identifiers may be any graphic that is capable of retaining identifying information. In some embodiments, the identifier is a one or two dimensional bar code suitable for scanning by an optical scanner such as a bar code reader. The identifier may be a two dimensional (2D) etched matrix of 2 millimeters (mm) by 2 mm (2×2 mm) or 1.4 mm by 1.4 mm (1.4×1.4 mm). The identifier may also be a radio frequency identification tag that is readable through radio frequency transmission generated by an independently powered RFID device. The identifier may also be an RFID tag that includes a transponder and is readable in response to a radio frequency signal transmitted to the RFID device. In some embodiments, the identifier is a human readable visual and/or tactile graphic such as alphanumeric characters that can be manually recorded in a database or chart.

It would be beneficial if physicians were able to obtain additional information about an implant and/or a patient from an implant identifier such as the manufacturer and model number of the device, the serial number of the device, the treating physician's name and contact information, and the patient's name, contact information, medical condition and treatment, among other relevant information.

Currently, difficulty arises in tracking medical implants. For example, medical implants are difficult to track because the implants generally do not have adequate surface area for applying marks. Thus, in many instances, implants are not tracked beyond their manufacturing facility, and may only be counted when reconciled for payment as one of many products that were not returned to a manufacturer for replenishment.

There is a strong and growing need to not only track medical implants but to do so efficiently while maintaining a sterile operating environment. Therefore, if the tracking system involves a reader, such as a barcode scanner or RFID reader, then the reader itself needs to be sterile so as not to contaminate the medical implant of which it is reading or the personnel operating the reader.

Medical equipment may be sterilized by the use of chemical or physical agents, for example using hot steam, gas or gamma rays sterilization. However, these means may not be appropriate for more delicate medical equipment, such as a reader.

There exists a need for a sterile interface for use with a reader that allows for the efficient use of the reader in a sterile operating room environment.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, the invention is an assembly for tracking implants comprising a (i) reader, (ii) medical drape, and (iii) computer. The reader comprises a (a) scanner, (b) housing structure comprising a cover and base, and optionally (c) transparent sterile sheath having a top surface and side walls and encases the cover of the housing structure. The cover has an aperture through the top surface of the cover. The medical drape is attached to the side walls of the transparent sterile sheath. The computer is in communication with the reader.

In an embodiment, the invention is a reader comprising a scanner, a scanner mounting structure supporting the scanner, a housing structure comprising a cover and base, and an optional transparent sterile sheath encasing the cover of the housing structure. The base comprises a top surface to receive the scanner mounting structure, an inset groove to receive the cover, an inset channel extending radially from the cover to the edge of the top surface of the base, and a removable channel cover. The scanner mounting structure is attached to the base and both the scanner and mounting structure are enclosed in the housing structure.

In an embodiment, the invention is a method of using a reader comprising the steps of providing a reader, placing an implant having an identifier onto the top surface of the transparent sterile sheath above the aperture, and scanning the identifier of the implant to electronically record the store data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is described generally with reference to the drawings for the purpose of illustrating certain embodiments only, and not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the invention. In the drawings like numerals are used to designate like parts throughout the same.

FIG. 1 is a schematic of an assembly of an embodiment of the invention including a reader and medical drape.

FIG. 2A is a sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2B is a sectional view of an embodiment of the assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the reader of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3B is a exploded view of an embodiment of the assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the reader of FIG. 3A without the cover.

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the removable channel cover.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the reader of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the scanner in FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is a sectional of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a schematic of a handheld reader and cradle of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a schematic of the handheld reader and a base structure.

FIG. 13A is a schematic of the handheld reader enclosed within a medical drape.

FIG. 13B is a schematic of the handheld reader and hand of a user enclosed within a medical drape.

FIG. 14 is a schematic of the reader of FIG. 12 enclosed within the housing structure of assembly of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure provides a system for tracking implants (e.g., screws, plates, cages, nuts, rods, etc.). An advantage of the present method for tracking an implant is a vast improvement in sterility and efficiency over current tracking methods. Typically, in an operating room, the patient to receive the implant is lying on an operating table in the center of the room. There is a sterile field extending two to three feet radially from the operating table. The present assembly comprising a reader assembled with transparent sterile sheath and sterile medical drape may be inside the sterile field. A computer, in communication with the reader, is typically outside the sterile field and, in certain instances, operated by a person outside the sterile field. The operator of the computer can log into the software which is password protected as the surgery is beginning and input certain information such as the patient's name, etc, to save time.

The present method increases efficiency in the operating room by decreasing the time spent during operation on scanning and tracking every implant going into the patient while maintaining a sterile environment. For example, during spinal surgery, the surgeon requests numerous screws, plates, hooks, and cages and each implant must be tracked by recording its manufacturer's information, lot number, serial number, etc. in addition to where that screw is implanted in the spine. Using the present assembly, the surgeon would request a screw, for example, having an identifier on its surface, the assistant would take the screw out of the sterile package, set the screw down on top of the transparent sterile sheath above an aperture on the reader, the reader would beep to indicate a successful scan of the identifier, and the assistant would hand the screw to the surgeon for implantation. The information (manufacturer's information, lot number, serial number, etc.) obtained from the identifier by the reader is transferred to the computer and the user of the computer can input data that indicates where the screw was implanted according to the surgeon's instruction. The location data of where the implant is placed in the patient may be aided by the software which pulls up an anatomical image where the user of the computer can then just select visually where the implant was inserted.

Table Top Implant Tracking Assembly

FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of an implant tracking assembly 10 which includes reader 20 and medical drape 24. FIG. 1 shows reader 20 comprising an optional transparent sterile sheath 22 that fits, preferably snuggly fits, over the top surface of reader 20. Assembly 10 includes medical drape 24 which is temporarily attached to and extends radially from the side walls of the transparent sterile sheath 22 to cover the remaining elements of the reader such as possible electrical cords, control panels, among other things. Assembly 10 includes a computer 25 (not shown) in communication with reader 20. Although FIG. 1 shows reader 20 placed on a table, the table is not part of the assembly 10. The reader device in assembly 10 may a table top reader, a handheld reader, or a table top-handheld reader.

Table Top Reader

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of reader 20. Reader 20 includes scanner 26, scanner mounting structure 30, and housing structure 32 including cover 33 and base 34.

As seen in FIGS. 2-4, base 34 of housing structure 32 includes a base top surface 36 to receive the scanner mounting structure 30 and inset groove 38 to receive the bottom edge of cover 33. One or more vertical pins 40 may extend up from the bottom of the base through the inset groove 38. The shape of the base may be circular as shown in FIG. 1, but as one skilled in the art would understand, the disclosure is not limited to a circular base. FIG. 2 shows an embodiment where the base has a track creating a lip or shelf that allows for easy transport or mobility of the reader by a user inserting their fingers into the track and picking up the reader.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of housing structure 32. Housing structure 32 further includes cover 33. Cover 33 includes cover top surface 46 and side wall 48, as seen in FIG. 3. In an embodiment, housing top surface 46 is circular and thus the side wall 48 is in the shape of a cylinder. Alternatively, housing top surface 46 may be square or rectangular, yielding four side walls 48. Side wall 48 may have at least one radial pin 52 extending radially out from the side wall 48. The housing top surface 46 has an aperture 54 that may be circular, oblong, square, or any other shape that allows the reader device to properly scan a medical implant placed above aperture 54. Side wall 48 may have at least one pin hole extending vertically into side wall 48 to receive vertical pin 40. Equivalents of pins are screws, bolts, nails, etc. In an embodiment, cover 33 is engaged with inset groove 38 of base 34 and vertical pin 40 is engaged with pin hole 50 of cover 33 securing cover 33 from any lateral movement. Cover 33 may sit in the center of base 34 or, more preferably, off center.

Housing structure 32 is made of an opaque material such as from a dense molded plastic, preferably a dark color, more preferably black.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of base 34, scanner mounting structure 30, and scanner 26. In an embodiment, scanning mounting structure 30 is bolted or otherwise securely fastened to top surface of removable channel cover 44. Alternatively scanning mounting structure 30 is bolted to base top surface 36 of base 34. Scanner 26 is housed in scanner housing 55 which is attached to scanning mounting structure 30 by screws that are received into receptacles 56 of scanner housing 55 (See FIG. 10). The position of scanner 26 is locked on the focal point of scanner 26 which is 1-3 millimeters (mm), preferably 1-2 mm, above the top surface of cover 33 in the area above aperture 54. When reader 20 comprises transparent sterile sheath 26, the focal point is on the surface of transparent sterile sheath 22 in the area above aperture 54. Alternatively, scanner 26 may be manufactured with adjustable knobs to allow a user to manually adjust the position of the scanner for an optimal read, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 3B.

Base 34 includes an inset channel 42 extending radially from the scanner mounting structure 30 to the edge of base 34 where the electrical cords from scanner 26 lay in inset channel 42 and extend out to a power source, control panel, or other appropriate source, as shown in FIG. 3B. Preferably, as shown in FIG. 4, inset channel 42 houses circuit board 58 which is in communication with scanner 26 and computer 25, typically, via electrical cords or wirelessly. In an embodiment, circuit board 58 is equivalent to the circuit board found in Motorola Symbol DS6707-DP.

Circuit board 58 is securely positioned in inset channel 42 in circuit board mold 60. Circuit board mold 60 is designed such that the outer surface matches the shape of inset channel 42 and the inner surface matches that of the shape of circuit board 58. Circuit board mold 60 is secured to base 34 by screws or pins and removable channel cover 44 is secured to circuit board mold 60 by screws or pins. In an embodiment, circuit board 58 comprises button 62 which activates scanner 26 to take a scan upon depressing button 62. The inner surface of circuit board mold 60 is designed such that when circuit board 58 is positioned in circuit board mold 60, button 62 is constantly depressed into the “on” position, which can be seen in FIG. 7.

Removable channel cover 44 is designed such that when in place it is merely a part of the top surface of the base. Removable channel cover 44 may be removed and slid, snapped, or placed back into place covering inset channel 42. FIG. 5 is a bottom view of an embodiment of removable channel cover 44. Removable channel cover 44 has two perpendicular slats 66 which engage with the inner surface of circuit board mold 60. FIG. 8 is a sectional of FIG. 6 that shows removable channel cover 44 further secured in place by screws which extend into circuit board mold 60. FIG. 6 also shows perpendicular slats 66 of removable channel cover 44 engaged with the inner surface of circuit board mold 60.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of FIG. 2. In an embodiment, magnet 64 is positioned inside cover 33 and is attached to base 34 or scanner housing 55. Most preferably, magnet 64 is built into base 34. Base 34 has a cut out specifically for magnet 64 to be placed into such that magnet 64 is flush with the base top surface 36. Magnet 64 is positioned off center and closest to the side of button 62. Magnet 64 has sufficient strength to allow scanner 26 to take a scan only when a user places a scannable object in the focal point of scanner 26.

FIG. 9 is a top view of scanner 26. Scanner 26 has conical walls 68 inside scanner housing 55. Scanner housing 55 includes shield 70 which extends beyond conical walls 68. Preferably, shield 70 comprises shield wings 72 which extend further on two opposite sides (See FIG. 4).

In an embodiment, scanner 26 is capable of reading identifiers such as conventional barcodes, etched matrixes, or any other optical indicator on an implant. In an embodiment, scanner 26 is equivalent to the scanner in Motorola Symbol DS6707-DP. In an embodiment, the reader further comprises a light emitting diode (LED) 28 for enhancing the visual indication of scanner 26, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 3B.

In an embodiment, reader 20 comprises an optional transparent sterile sheath 22 as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B which encases cover 33 of reader 20. Transparent sterile sheath 22 has sheath top surface 75 and sheath side wall 76. Preferably, sheath top surface 75 is slightly convex to deflect ambient light. The degree of convexivity is such that the transparent sheath reflects ambient light that interferes with the reader. Ambient light is background light typically present in an operating room. In an embodiment, sheath side wall 76 has at least one radial pin slot 77 designed to receive radial pin 52 of cover 33. FIG. 3A shows an embodiment in which two radial pin slots 77 are in an inverted “L” shape such that when radial pin 52 of cover 33 engages with the radial pin slots 77 and the transparent sterile sheath 22 is twisted, it temporarily locks the transparent sterile sheath 22 in place by hindering vertical movement. One skilled in the art would understand the transparent sterile sheath could be temporarily locked into place over cover 33 in various manners. Alternatively, the transparent sterile sheath 22 may just rest over cover 33 without any mechanism to lock the sheath in place.

Transparent sterile sheath 22 is designed such that when transparent sterile sheath 22 is engaged with housing structure 32 the area of sheath top surface 75 directly above aperture 54 of housing structure 32 is at the focal point of scanner 26. Placement of an implant with an indicator directly on the sheath top surface 75 directly above aperture 54 allows for the scanner to read the indicator without an operator having to hover the implant device over aperture 54 and search for the focal point of the scanner 26.

In an embodiment, the transparent sterile sheath is formed of a single piece of rigid transparent plastic. In an embodiment, the transparent sterile sheath is formed of a non-conductive, flexible, easily distortable, resilient material, which can be sterilized. Preferably, the transparent sterile sheath is disposable.

The thickness of transparent sterile sheath 22 is such that does not interfere with the reader device's ability to obtain data from an identifier on a medical implant. Transparent sterile sheath 22 may be made of an elastomer, plastic, rubber, polyethylene, polypropylene, among other materials that result in a functioning transparent sterile sheath 22 of the invention. In an embodiment, transparent sterile sheath 22 is made of a rigid, transparent plastic such as polycarbonate.

Transparent sterile sheath 22 may have additional properties that enhance the reader device's abilities. For example, in an embodiment, the sheath top surface 75 has magnifying abilities to allow a reader device to gather information from a smaller identifier such as a barcode or a 2D-grid or matrix the size of 2 millimeters (mm) by 2 mm, and even 1.4 mm by 1.4 mm. In an embodiment the transparent sterile sheath 22 adheres to reader 20 such that the seal between transparent sterile sheath 22 and housing top surface 46 creates a vacuum between transparent sterile sheath 22 and the reader device. A vacuum between reader 20 and transparent sterile sheath 22 allows for improved reading of reader 20.

Assembly 10 comprising table top reader 20 further increases the efficiency of implant tracking by allowing a user to place the implant having the identifier on the surface of a transparent sheath for an accurate, automatic scan of the identifier. The user is not having to spend precious time waving/hovering the implant in front of a handheld scanner to find the focal point of the scanner to obtain a scan during surgery. The inventive structure of reader 20 provides an efficient and sterile implant tracking device.

Handheld Reader

FIGS. 11-14 are embodiments of an assembly comprising handheld reader 80 including reader lens 82 and handle 84. Handheld reader 80 contains an optical scanner. In an embodiment the optical scanner is equivalent to that found in Motorola Symbol DS6707-DP. FIG. 11 is an embodiment of an assembly comprising a handheld reader 80 positioned in cradle 86, wherein handheld reader 80 is detachably connected to the cradle. Handheld reader 80 further comprises transparent sterile lens cover 88 which allows for an implant bearing an identifier to come into close proximity to the lens cover 88 for scanning without compromising the implant's sterility. Transparent sterile lens cover 88 may have magnifying abilities to allow the reader device to gather information from a smaller barcode or a 2D-grid or matrix the size of 2 millimeters (mm) by 2 mm, and even 1.4 mm by 1.4 mm. The focal point of the scanner is just above (1-2 mm) the surface of transparent sterile lens cover 88.

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of handheld reader 80 further comprising base structure 90 built off of handle 84 of the handheld reader that allows the user to place handheld reader 80 on a flat surface and operate handheld reader 80 without holding onto it. FIG. 12 shows transparent sterile lens cover 88 engaged with reader lens 82. In an embodiment, transparent sterile lens cover 88 releasably attaches to reader lens 82 to temporarily fix transparent sterile lens cover 88 in place over reader lens 82 of handheld reader 80. In an embodiment transparent sterile lens cover 88 snaps into place over reader lens 82 with the application of minor force.

Table Top-Handheld Reader

In an embodiment shown in FIG. 14, handheld reader 80 is placed inside housing structure 32 of FIG. 1 by replacing scanner 26 and scanner mounting structure 30. Handheld reader 80 may be positioned in cradle 86 which secured and/or mounted to base 34. In an embodiment, handheld scanner 80 does not contain handle 84. Alternatively, handheld reader 80 may comprise base structure 90 which is mounted to base 34. Reader lens 82 is positioned below aperture 54 which is covered by transparent sterile sheath 22 such that the focal point of handheld reader 80 is on or right above the surface of transparent sterile sheath 22 in the area above aperture 54. As a typical handheld reader is operated by a trigger on handle 80, a scanner switch 92 may be positioned on the base outside of cover 32 which allows the user to press to activate handheld reader 80. Alternatively, magnet 64 may be positioned near handheld reader 80 to keep handheld reader 80 activated and continually taking scans when an implant having an identifier is placed on the focal point. The handheld reader 80 may or may not include transparent sterile lens cover 88. Any of the transparent sterile sheath 22, transparent sterile lens cover 88 and reader lens 82 may have magnifying abilities that are compatible with each other.

Medical Drape

Assembly 10 further comprises a medical drape. Medical drape 24 may be made of conventional medical drape material. Alternatively, medical drape 24 is transparent and flexible to enable use of a control panel on a reader device. Medical drape 24 may allow for the manipulation of buttons, calibrating dials, and adjusting knobs frequently associated with reader 20.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, medical drape 24 temporarily attaches to side wall 64 of transparent sterile sheath 22 and extends out radially to maintain a sterile environment. Medical drape 24 may comprise an elastic band to attach to sheath side wall 64. Alternatively, medical drape 24 may clip onto sheath side wall 64 for attachment. Any attachment mechanism may be used to attach medical drape 24 to sheath side wall 64.

FIGS. 13A and 13B show an embodiment in which medical drape 24 is attached to transparent sterile lens cover 88 of handheld reader 80. Medical drape 24 unrolls from lens cover 88 and creates a barrier between the reader device and the sterile environment. In the situation depicted in FIG. 13A, the user, usually wearing a sterile glove, would generally operate the handheld reader 70 by holding reader 80 on top of medical drape 24. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 13B, the medical drape is designed to fit over the user's hand.

Medical drape 24 may be made of conventional medical drape material. Alternatively, medical drape 24 is transparent and flexible to enable use of a control panel on a reader device. Medical drape 24 may allow for the manipulation of buttons, calibrating dials, and adjusting knobs frequently associated with reader 80.

Computer

Assembly 10 comprises computer 25 in communication with reader 20. Computer 25 is equipped with software that allows recording and manipulation of input data from reader 20. The software is designed to receive information (manufacturer's information, lot number, serial number, etc.) obtained from the identifier upon being scanned by the reader. The software further allows the user of the computer to input data that indicates where the screw was implanted according to the surgeon's instruction. The location data of where the implant is placed in the patient may be aided by the software which pulls up an anatomical image where the user of the computer can then just select visually where the implant was inserted. Computer 25 is usually outside the sterile field. Alternatively, the computer may be part of the same assembly as the reader. The term computer is meant to encompass desktop computers, laptops, tablets, pads, among others.

Additional Components

Assembly 10 may further include additional components such as a keyboard, mouse, stylus, printer, display screen or other interface that allows a user to interact with the system such as to input information, issue commands, power the device on and off, perform file management, upgrade software and database information, monitor output, receive feedback and perform other administrative and non-administrative tasks.

Implant Tracking Method

The present disclosure provides a method of tracking a medical implant including providing a reader as described above, placing a transparent sterile sheath over the housing structure of the reader device, placing an implant device having an identifier on the top surface of the transparent sterile sheath above the aperture of the housing structure; and scanning the identifier of the implant device to record the stored data.

An advantage of the present disclosure is a method of tracking an implant that allows for greater efficiency and ease of use by the operator, while maintaining a sterile environment. By using the implant tracking method of the present disclosure, the user does not have to hand record the implant identifying information, which allows a faster operating procedure. Nor does the user need to spend time finding the focal point of the scanner to obtain an accurate read of the identifier. The method of the present disclosure is designed to allow a user to place the implant with the identifier onto its top surface to obtain an accurate scan of the identifier and then quickly pass the implant to the surgeon for implantation, all while not compromising the sterility of the implant or surgical field. The scanner takes a scan automatically when the identifier is placed on the top surface of the transparent sheath above the aperture. Thus, the user does not have to bother with a button to activate the scanner to take a scan while handling in the implant.

In an embodiment, the identifier is a conventional 4×4 millimeter (mm) matrix, or a nonconventional 2×2 mm or 1.4×1.4 mm matrix laser etched directly onto the implant device. By having the identifier etched directly into the surface of the medical implant, the user does not have to bother with scanning external tags to the medical device and removing the tag prior to the implant procedure; thus, allowing for a more efficient method of tracking.

The method further includes positioning a medical drape to cover the remaining portions of a reader device. In an embodiment, the positioning of the medical drape to cover the remaining portions of a reader device includes unrolling the medical drape from the transparent lens cover to extend around the remaining portions of the reader device. In an embodiment, the positioning of the medical drape to cover the remaining portions of a reader device further includes unrolling the medical drape to extend around the remaining portions of the reader as well as the user's arm operating the reader device.

As one skilled in the art would understand, a medical implant of the present disclosure includes implants such as artificial joints, spinal implants, active medical device implants such as cardiac defibrillators, cardiac pacemakers, gastrointestinal pace makers, arterial stints, as well as other passive or active implantable medical devices.

The present disclosure includes the following embodiments:

An assembly for tracking implants comprising

-   -   a reader comprising:         -   a scanner,         -   a housing structure comprising             -   a cover comprising                 -   an aperture on a top surface of the cover, and             -   a base comprising                 -   an inset groove to receive the cover, and         -   optionally a transparent sterile sheath having a top surface             and side walls,         -   wherein the transparent sterile sheath encases the cover of             the housing structure,         -   wherein the scanner is positioned to form a focal point             above the aperture,         -   wherein the scanner is enclosed in the housing structure;     -   a medical drape attached to the side walls of the transparent         sterile sheath; and     -   a computer in communication with the reader.

The assembly wherein the reader further comprises an LED and a scanner mounting structure supporting the scanner and LED device wherein the scanner mounting structure is attached to the base.

An assembly for tracking implants comprising

-   -   a handheld reader;     -   a housing structure comprising         -   a cover comprising             -   an aperture on a top surface of the cover, and         -   a base comprising             -   an inset groove to receive the cover;     -   optionally a transparent sterile sheath having a top surface and         side walls,         -   wherein the transparent sterile sheath encases the cover of             the housing structure,         -   wherein the handheld reader is secured to the base to form a             focal point above the aperture,         -   wherein the handheld reader is enclosed in the housing             structure;     -   a medical drape attached to the side walls of the transparent         sterile sheath; and a computer in communication with the         handheld reader.

A reader comprising:

-   -   a scanner;     -   an LED;     -   a scanner mounting structure supporting the scanner and LED;     -   a housing structure comprising         -   a cover comprising             -   an aperture on a top surface of the cover, and         -   a base comprising             -   a top surface to receive the scanner mounting structure,             -   an inset groove to receive the housing structure; and     -   an optional transparent sterile sheath encasing the cover of the         housing structure,     -   wherein the scanner mounting structure is attached to the base     -   wherein the scanner and LED are positioned to form a focal point         above the aperture,     -   wherein the scanner, LED and mounting structure are enclosed in         the housing structure.

The reader wherein the cover further comprises at least one radial pin extending from a side surface of the cover.

The reader wherein the cover further comprises at least one pin hole in the side of the cover to receive a vertical pin.

The reader wherein the base further comprises at least one vertical pin extending up through the inset groove.

The reader of claim 4 wherein the base further comprises an inset channel extending radially from the scanner mounting structure to the edge of the top surface of the base, and a removable channel cover.

The reader having a transparent sterile sheath covering the cover of the reader.

The reader having a transparent sterile sheath covering the cover of the reader wherein the transparent sterile sheath further comprises at least one radial pin slot to receive the radial pin from the cover.

The reader wherein the scanner is capable of scanning 2×2 mil etched identifiers.

The reader wherein the top surface of the transparent sheath in the area above the aperture of the cover corresponds with the focal point of the scanner and LED.

The reader further comprising a medical drape wherein the medical drape does not obstruct the aperture of the housing structure and wherein the medical drape extends radially out from the side surface of the housing structure.

The reader wherein the transparent sterile sheath has magnifying abilities.

The reader wherein the transparent sterile sheath is formed of a single piece of transparent plastic.

The reader wherein the transparent sterile sheath is disposable.

A method of using a reader comprising the steps of:

-   -   providing a reader comprising:         -   a scanner;         -   an LED;         -   a scanner mounting structure supporting the scanner and LED             device; and         -   a housing structure comprising             -   a cover comprising             -   an aperture on a top surface of the cover, and             -   a base comprising             -   a top surface to receive the scanner mounting structure,             -   an inset groove to receive the housing structure,         -   wherein the scanner mounting structure is attached to the             base         -   wherein the scanner and LED are positioned to form a focal             point above the aperture,         -   wherein the scanner, LED and mounting structure are enclosed             in the housing structure;     -   placing a transparent sterile sheath over the housing structure         of the reader;     -   placing an implant having an identifier onto the top surface of         the transparent sterile sheath above the aperture; and     -   scanning the identifier of the implant to electronically record         the stored data.

The method further comprising the step of positioning a medical drape to cover the remaining portions of a reader.

The method wherein the identifier on the implant is an etched 2×2 matrix containing data regarding the implant.

The method of claim 17 wherein positioning the medical drape to cover the remaining portions of a reader device comprises unrolling the medical drape from the transparent sterile sheath to extend the medical drape around the remaining portions of the reader device.

Although the invention has been described with certain detail through the preceding description of the preferred embodiments, this detail is for the primary purpose of illustration. Many variations and modifications can be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An assembly for tracking implants comprising a reader comprising: a scanner, a housing structure comprising a cover comprising an aperture on a top surface of the cover, and a base, and a transparent sterile sheath encasing the cover of the housing structure, wherein the scanner is enclosed in the housing structure; a medical drape attached to the side walls of the transparent sterile sheath.
 2. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the scanner is positioned to form a focal point on a top surface of the transparent sterile sheath above the aperture.
 3. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the reader further comprises a scanner mounting structure supporting the scanner wherein the scanner mounting structure is attached to the base.
 4. A reader comprising: a scanner; a scanner mounting structure supporting the scanner; a housing structure comprising a cover comprising an aperture on a top surface of the cover, and a base comprising a top surface to receive the scanner mounting structure, an inset groove to receive the cover, an inset channel extending radially from the cover to the edge of the top surface of the base, and a removable channel cover; and transparent sterile sheath encasing the cover of the housing structure, wherein the scanner mounting structure is attached to the base, wherein the scanner and scanner mounting structure are enclosed in the housing structure.
 5. The reader of claim 4 wherein the inset channel houses a circuit board in communication with the scanner.
 6. The reader of claim 5 wherein the circuit board is housed in a circuit board mold and wherein the circuit board mold fits securely in the inset channel.
 7. The reader of claim 4 wherein the base further comprises a magnet.
 8. The reader of claim 4 wherein the scanner comprises a scanner housing attached to the scanner mounting structure.
 9. The reader of claim 4 wherein the scanner is capable of scanning 2×2 mm etched identifiers.
 10. The reader of claim 4 comprising the transparent sheath wherein a top surface of the transparent sheath in the area above the aperture of the cover corresponds with the focal point of the scanner.
 11. The reader of claim 10 wherein the transparent sterile sheath has magnifying abilities.
 12. The reader of claim 10 wherein the transparent sterile sheath is formed of a single piece of transparent plastic.
 13. The reader of claim 10 wherein the transparent sterile sheath is disposable.
 14. A transparent sheath adapted to fit the reader of claim 1 wherein the sheath has a convex top surface.
 15. A method of using a reader comprising the steps of: providing a reader comprising: a scanner; a scanner mounting structure supporting the scanner; a housing structure comprising a cover comprising an aperture on a top surface of the cover, and a base comprising a top surface to receive the scanner mounting structure, an inset groove to receive the cover; and a transparent sterile sheath encasing the cover of the housing structure; wherein the scanner mounting structure is attached to the base, wherein the scanner is positioned to form a focal point on a top surface of the transparent sterile sheath above the aperture, wherein the scanner and mounting structure are enclosed in the housing structure; placing an implant having an identifier onto the top surface of the transparent sterile sheath above the aperture; and scanning the identifier of the implant to electronically record the stored data.
 16. The method of claim 15 wherein a medical drape attaches to the sides of the transparent sterile sheath to cover the remaining portions of a reader.
 17. The method of claim 15 wherein the identifier on the implant is an etched 1.4×1.4 mm matrix containing data regarding the implant.
 18. The method of claim 15 wherein upon placing an implant having an identifier onto the top surface of the transparent sterile sheath above the aperture, the scanner automatically takes a scan. 